Behind the Scenes: The Heart of Pineapple Island’s Artisan Jewellery
At Pineapple Island, every piece of jewellery tells a story of craftsmanship, people, community, and purpose. At the heart of this story is Usep, our lead artisan based on the vibrant island of Java, Indonesia. Since 2012, Usep has been an integral part of our journey, transforming our designs into beautiful, handcrafted pieces that reflect both tradition and innovation.
🌿 Crafting with Purpose
Usep leads a talented community of artisans who bring our designs to life. The creative process begins in-house, with our UK team drafting initial designs, selecting colour palettes, and intricate details. These concepts are then shared with Usep via WhatsApp and Excel, sparking his imagination and inspiring his team. Usep and his skilled artisans work tirelessly to create stunning samples, capturing the essence of our designs.
🌊 A Studio Rooted in Sustainability
Usep's studio is a hub of creativity and sustainability. In support of our sustainability mission, Usep sources materials at local markets, salvaging discarded treasures such as puka and cowrie shells that would otherwise end up in landfills. Carefully, his team cleans and repurposes these natural materials, transforming them to be used in our jewellery.
The Pineapple Island maker community boasts nearly 1000 independent artisans, each with unique skills and contributing to the creation of our jewellery. From weaving intricate patterns with silk cotton to shaping recycled shells, these artisans bring their expertise and passion to every piece. These artisans have the freedom to choose when and where they work, giving flexibility to work around their family and other responsibilities. This also means we can employ artisans from other areas of Indonesia, supporting the wider community.
💛 Why We Love Working with Usep
Usep embodies the spirit of creativity, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness that defines our brand. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in building a community that values both artistry and sustainability. Working with Usep is not just about creating beautiful jewellery; it's about fostering relationships, supporting communities, and making a positive impact.
Every handmade piece comes from Bali, made with care, passion, and love. Celebrating handmade craft, community and incredible talent.
Thank you for reading and supporting us!